A stroke happens when a blood corridor in the brain bursts and drains or when the blood supply to the cerebrum is cut off (Luo, 2019). Stroke is caused by one of two things: a clogged artery or a blood vessel spilling or bursting.
Prevention
Many stroke preventive techniques are similar to heart disease preventative strategies. Healthy living guidelines in general include:
- Managing high blood pressure (hypertension).
- Reducing your intake of cholesterol and saturated fat.
- Keeping a healthy weight.
- Consuming a diet high in fruits and vegetables.
- Consistent physical activity (Steiger & Cifu, 2016).
Preventive medications
Antiplatelet drugs
Platelets are blood cells that produce clots. Antiplatelet medications make these cells less sticky and hence less prone to clot (Luo, 2019). Aspirin is the most widely used antiplatelet drug. Your doctor may advise you on the appropriate aspirin dose for you.
Anticoagulants
These medications inhibit blood coagulation. Heparin is a fast-acting anticoagulant that can be administered in the hospital for a short period. Warfarin with slower onset of action (Coumadin, Jantoven) may be taken for a more extended period (CDC, 2021).
Stroke Rehabilitation
Following a stroke, you may require rehabilitation (rehab) to aid in your recovery. Before you leave the hospital, social workers can assist you in locating care services and caregiver support to help you continue your long-term rehabilitation. The objective of stroke rehabilitation is to assist you with relearning abilities you lost when a stroke influenced part of your cerebrum. Stroke rehabilitation can assist you with recapturing freedom and work on your personal satisfaction.
The seriousness of stroke difficulties and every individual’s capacity to recuperate differ broadly. Analysts have discovered that individuals who take an interest in an engaged stroke rehabilitation program perform better compared to a great many people who don’t have stroke rehabilitation. (Luo, 2019). It is critical to collaborate with your health care team to determine the cause of your stroke and take actions to avoid future strokes.
References
CDC. (2021). Stroke treatment | cdc.gov. Web.
Luo, E. K. (2019). Stroke: symptoms, causes, treatment, types & more. Healthline. Web.
Steiger, N., & Cifu, A. S. (2016). Primary prevention of stroke. JAMA – Journal of the American Medical Association, 316(6), 658–659. Web.